Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method comprising: receiving, at a first baseboard management controller of a plurality of baseboard management controllers within the multi-node chassis, a request from a console via a first communication channel, the request including information of identification of a specific baseboard management controller of the plurality of baseboard management controllers; receiving, at a chassis management controller of the multi-node chassis within a server rack, a first communication, wherein the first communication is received from the first baseboard management controller; communicating, from the chassis management controller to the specific baseboard management controller, a second communication, wherein the second communication is based on the first communication, and wherein the specific baseboard management controller is distinct from the first baseboard management controller; receiving, at the chassis management controller, in response to the second communication and from the specific baseboard controller, a response to the second communication; communicating the response from the chassis management controller to the first baseboard management controller; and communicating the response from the first baseboard management controller to the console via the first communication channel, wherein the first communication and the second communication comprise a baseboard management controller identification corresponding to the specific baseboard management controller, the baseboard management controller identification corresponding to reserved intelligent platform management interface bits.
This invention relates to managing communication between a console and multiple baseboard management controllers (BMCs) within a multi-node chassis in a server rack. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication routing between a console and specific BMCs in a multi-node environment, where direct communication may not be feasible due to network topology or security constraints. The system includes a plurality of BMCs within a multi-node chassis and a chassis management controller (CMC) that manages communication between the BMCs and an external console. A console sends a request to a first BMC via a communication channel, specifying a target BMC within the chassis. The first BMC forwards this request to the CMC, which then routes the communication to the specified BMC. The target BMC processes the request and sends a response back to the CMC, which forwards it to the first BMC. The first BMC then relays the response to the console. The communications between the CMC and the BMCs include identification information for the target BMC, encoded using reserved bits in the Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) protocol. This ensures proper routing and security of the communication within the chassis. The system enables centralized management of BMC communication, improving scalability and security in multi-node server environments.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first communication is based on a local area network request received from a local area network console, and wherein the local area network console communicates with the plurality of baseboard management controllers exclusively through the first baseboard management controller within the multi-node chassis.
This invention relates to network communication systems for managing multiple computing nodes within a multi-node chassis. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and centralized communication between a local area network (LAN) console and multiple baseboard management controllers (BMCs) in a multi-node environment, where direct communication between the LAN console and individual BMCs is not feasible. The method involves a first communication initiated by a LAN console, which is received by a first BMC within the multi-node chassis. This first BMC acts as an intermediary, facilitating communication between the LAN console and other BMCs in the chassis. The LAN console communicates exclusively through this first BMC, which relays messages to and from the other BMCs. This approach ensures centralized control and management of the multi-node system, simplifying administration and reducing the complexity of direct connections between the LAN console and each BMC. The system leverages local area network protocols to establish and maintain these communication pathways, enabling seamless interaction between the LAN console and the distributed BMCs within the chassis. This method improves scalability and reliability in managing multi-node computing environments.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the local area network request comprises one or more of: a data request; a baseboard management controller IP address corresponding to the first baseboard management controller; a baseboard management controller node identification corresponding to the specific baseboard management controller; a baseboard management controller intelligent platform management interface channel number; a target device I2c address; and a command.
This invention relates to network communication systems, specifically methods for managing and interacting with baseboard management controllers (BMCs) in a local area network (LAN). The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication between a management system and BMCs, particularly in environments where direct access may be restricted or where specific identification and command parameters are required. The method involves transmitting a LAN request from a management system to a first BMC, where the request includes one or more of the following: a data request, the BMC's IP address, a node identification specific to the BMC, an intelligent platform management interface (IPMI) channel number, a target device I2C address, or a command. The request is structured to enable precise targeting of the BMC and its associated devices, allowing for remote management tasks such as configuration, monitoring, or troubleshooting. The method ensures that the request is properly formatted and authenticated before transmission, enhancing security and reliability in the communication process. This approach is particularly useful in data centers or enterprise environments where centralized management of multiple BMCs is necessary.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the specific baseboard management controller sends a request to a device, the request being based on a specific communication; and wherein the response is generated at the device in response to the request.
A system and method for managing communication between a baseboard management controller (BMC) and a device in a computing environment. The BMC monitors and controls hardware components, but traditional systems lack efficient communication protocols for dynamic interactions. This invention addresses the need for a BMC to initiate and process requests to a device, ensuring reliable and timely responses. The BMC sends a request to a device, where the request is structured based on a predefined communication protocol. The device processes the request and generates a response, which is then transmitted back to the BMC. This interaction allows the BMC to dynamically query or command the device, enabling real-time monitoring, diagnostics, or control. The communication protocol ensures compatibility and reduces errors in data exchange. The system improves efficiency by automating interactions between the BMC and peripheral devices, enhancing system reliability and reducing manual intervention. The method is applicable in server management, embedded systems, and IoT devices where remote monitoring and control are critical.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the server rack comprises a plurality of multi-node chassis, wherein each multi-node chassis in the plurality of multi-node chassis has a single baseboard management controller which communicates with a local area network console.
This invention relates to server rack systems designed for efficient management and monitoring of computing nodes. The problem addressed is the complexity and cost associated with managing multiple computing nodes in a server rack, particularly when each node requires its own management controller. Traditional systems often use individual baseboard management controllers (BMCs) for each node, leading to higher costs, increased power consumption, and more complex network configurations. The invention provides a server rack system with a plurality of multi-node chassis, where each chassis contains multiple computing nodes. Instead of assigning a dedicated BMC to each node, the system uses a single BMC per multi-node chassis. This BMC communicates with a local area network (LAN) console, enabling centralized management and monitoring of all nodes within the chassis. The LAN console can be a dedicated management interface or part of a broader network infrastructure. This approach reduces hardware costs, simplifies network setup, and lowers power consumption by eliminating redundant management controllers. The single BMC handles tasks such as remote power control, temperature monitoring, and system diagnostics for all nodes in the chassis, streamlining operations and improving scalability. The system is particularly useful in data centers and enterprise environments where efficient resource management is critical.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the baseboard management controller identification is one to four bits long.
A system and method for managing baseboard management controllers (BMCs) in computing devices involves identifying and communicating with BMCs using a compact identification scheme. The technology addresses the need for efficient and standardized identification of BMCs in large-scale computing environments, such as data centers, where numerous devices must be monitored and managed remotely. Traditional identification methods often rely on longer, more complex identifiers, which can complicate communication and increase processing overhead. The invention introduces a method where each BMC is assigned a unique identifier that is one to four bits in length. This short identifier allows for rapid and efficient communication between the BMC and a management system, reducing latency and simplifying the identification process. The compact identifier is used to distinguish between different BMCs, enabling targeted commands, status checks, and other management functions. The method ensures compatibility with existing BMC protocols while improving scalability and performance in environments with high device density. The system may include a management controller that generates and assigns the short identifiers to BMCs, ensuring uniqueness and proper mapping to physical or logical addresses. The identifiers can be dynamically assigned or preconfigured, depending on the deployment requirements. This approach minimizes the overhead associated with longer identifiers while maintaining the necessary level of granularity for effective BMC management. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where low-latency communication and efficient resource utilization are critical.
7. A system comprising: a first baseboard management controller of a plurality of baseboard management controllers within a server rack; and a chassis management controller, wherein the chassis management controller is configured to perform operations comprising: receiving, at the first baseboard management controller, a request from a console via a first communication channel, the request including information of identification of a specific baseboard management controller of the plurality of baseboard management controllers; receiving a first communication, wherein the first communication is received from the first baseboard management controller; communicating, from the chassis management controller to the specific baseboard management controller, a second communication, wherein the second communication is based on the first communication; receiving, at the chassis management controller, in response to the specific communication and from the specific baseboard controller, a response to the second communication; communicating the response from the chassis management controller to the first baseboard management controller; and communicating the response from the first baseboard management controller to the console via the first communication channel, wherein the first communication and the second communication comprise a baseboard management controller identification corresponding to the specific baseboard management controller, the baseboard management controller identification corresponding to reserved intelligent platform management interface bits.
The system relates to server rack management, specifically improving communication between a console and multiple baseboard management controllers (BMCs) within a server rack. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and complexity of directly managing individual BMCs in a rack, particularly when a console needs to interact with a specific BMC among many. The system includes a first BMC and a chassis management controller (CMC) that acts as an intermediary. The CMC receives a request from a console via a communication channel, where the request identifies a specific BMC in the rack. The CMC then forwards this request to the identified BMC using a second communication, which includes the BMC's identification encoded in reserved Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) bits. The identified BMC processes the request and sends a response back to the CMC, which then relays it to the first BMC and ultimately to the console. This approach centralizes communication, simplifying management and reducing direct console-to-BMC interactions. The use of reserved IPMI bits ensures compatibility with existing management protocols while enabling efficient routing of commands to the correct BMC. The system enhances scalability and reduces the overhead of managing multiple BMCs in a server rack environment.
8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the first communication is based on a local area network request received from a local area network console, and wherein the local area network console communicates exclusively with the first baseboard management controller.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to a system for managing communication between a local area network (LAN) console and a baseboard management controller (BMC) in a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently routing network requests from a LAN console to a specific BMC, ensuring exclusive communication to prevent unauthorized access or interference. The system includes a first BMC that receives a LAN request from a LAN console. The LAN console is configured to communicate exclusively with the first BMC, ensuring that all network traffic from the console is directed solely to this BMC. This exclusivity prevents other BMCs or devices from intercepting or modifying the communication, enhancing security and reliability. The system may also include additional BMCs, each with their own dedicated LAN consoles, allowing for scalable and isolated management of multiple computing devices. The LAN request is processed by the first BMC, which may perform tasks such as monitoring system health, configuring hardware settings, or executing remote management commands. The exclusive communication path ensures that the LAN console can reliably interact with the first BMC without interference from other network devices. This design is particularly useful in data centers or enterprise environments where secure and isolated management of computing resources is critical. The system improves operational efficiency by reducing the risk of misrouted requests and unauthorized access.
9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the local area network request comprises one or more of: a data request; a baseboard management controller IP address corresponding to the first baseboard management controller; a baseboard management controller node identification corresponding to the specific baseboard management controller; a baseboard management controller intelligent platform management interface channel number; a target device I2c address; and a command.
A system for managing and communicating with baseboard management controllers (BMCs) in a local area network (LAN) environment is disclosed. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently accessing and controlling BMCs, which are embedded controllers used for monitoring and managing hardware components in servers and other computing devices. The system enables remote management of BMCs by processing LAN requests that include various types of data, such as data requests, BMC IP addresses, BMC node identifications, intelligent platform management interface (IPMI) channel numbers, target device I2C addresses, and specific commands. These requests are used to interact with a first BMC, which acts as a proxy to forward the requests to a second BMC. The system ensures secure and reliable communication between the BMCs, allowing for remote monitoring, configuration, and troubleshooting of hardware components. The use of IPMI channels and I2C addresses enables precise targeting of specific devices within the system, while the inclusion of commands allows for direct execution of management tasks. This system enhances the efficiency and flexibility of BMC management in networked environments.
10. The system of claim 7 , wherein the specific baseboard management controller sends a request to a device, the request being based on the specific communication; and wherein the response is generated at the device in response to the request.
A system for managing communication between a baseboard management controller (BMC) and a device in a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently handling communication requests and responses between a BMC and a device, ensuring reliable and timely data exchange. The BMC sends a request to the device, where the request is based on a specific communication protocol or instruction. The device processes the request and generates a response, which is then transmitted back to the BMC. This interaction allows the BMC to monitor, control, or retrieve information from the device, such as hardware status, performance metrics, or configuration settings. The system ensures that the communication is structured and standardized, reducing errors and improving system reliability. The BMC may be part of a server or embedded system, and the device could be a peripheral, sensor, or another component within the computing infrastructure. The system enhances operational efficiency by automating communication workflows and ensuring consistent data exchange between the BMC and the device.
11. The system of claim 9 , wherein the baseboard management controller identification is one to four bits long.
A system for managing computer hardware includes a baseboard management controller (BMC) that monitors and controls hardware components. The BMC communicates with a host system to provide status updates and receive commands. The system includes a BMC identification mechanism that assigns a unique identifier to each BMC. This identifier is used to distinguish between multiple BMCs in a networked or clustered environment, ensuring proper communication and management. The identifier is encoded in a compact format, specifically one to four bits in length, to minimize data transmission overhead while maintaining sufficient uniqueness for identification purposes. The compact size of the identifier allows for efficient communication and reduces the complexity of managing multiple BMCs in large-scale deployments. The system ensures reliable identification and control of hardware components by leveraging the BMC identifier, enabling centralized management and troubleshooting of hardware resources.
12. A computer-readable storage device having instructions stored which, when executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations comprising: receiving, at a first baseboard management controller of a plurality of baseboard management controllers within a multi-node chassis, a request from a console via a first communication channel, the request including information of identification of a specific baseboard management controller of the plurality of baseboard management controllers; receiving, at a chassis management controller of the multi-node chassis within a server rack, a first communication, wherein the first communication is received from the first baseboard management controller; communicating, from the chassis management controller to the specific baseboard management controller, a second communication, wherein the second communication is based on the first communication, and wherein the specific baseboard management controller is distinct from the first baseboard management controller; receiving, at the chassis management controller, in response to the second communication and from the specific baseboard controller, a response to the second communication; communicating the response from the chassis management controller to the first baseboard management controller; and communicating the response from the first baseboard management controller to the console via the first communication channel, wherein the first communication and the second communication comprise a baseboard management controller identification corresponding to the specific baseboard management controller, the baseboard management controller identification corresponding to reserved intelligent platform management interface bits.
This invention relates to managing communications between a console and multiple baseboard management controllers (BMCs) within a multi-node server chassis. The problem addressed is the efficient routing of console requests to specific BMCs in a multi-node environment, where direct communication between the console and each BMC is impractical or inefficient. The solution involves a chassis management controller (CMC) that acts as an intermediary, facilitating communication between the console and the target BMC. The system includes a multi-node chassis with multiple BMCs, each managing a node within the chassis. A console sends a request to a first BMC via a communication channel, specifying the target BMC using identification information. The first BMC forwards this request to the CMC, which then routes it to the specific BMC identified in the request. The target BMC processes the request and sends a response back to the CMC, which forwards it to the first BMC. The first BMC then relays the response to the console. The communications between the CMC and the BMCs include BMC identification information encoded in reserved Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) bits, ensuring proper routing. This approach enables centralized management of BMC communications within the chassis, improving scalability and reducing complexity in multi-node server environments.
13. The computer-readable storage device of claim 12 , wherein the first communication is based on a based on a local area network request received from a local area network console, and wherein the local area network console communicates exclusively with the first baseboard management controller.
A system for managing computer hardware includes a baseboard management controller (BMC) that monitors and controls hardware components. The BMC communicates with a local area network (LAN) console, which sends requests to the BMC over a LAN. The LAN console is dedicated to the BMC, meaning it does not communicate with other BMCs or external systems. This setup allows for centralized management of hardware through the LAN console, which can issue commands to the BMC to perform tasks such as power control, temperature monitoring, and system diagnostics. The BMC processes these requests and executes the corresponding actions on the hardware. This system improves hardware management by providing a direct and exclusive communication channel between the LAN console and the BMC, ensuring secure and efficient control of the hardware components. The LAN console's exclusive communication with the BMC prevents unauthorized access and ensures that commands are only processed by the intended BMC, enhancing system security and reliability.
14. The computer-readable storage device of claim 13 , wherein the local area network request comprises one or more of: a data request; a baseboard management controller IP address corresponding to the first baseboard management controller; a baseboard management controller node identification corresponding to the second baseboard management controller; a baseboard management controller intelligent platform management interface channel number; a target device I2c address; and a command.
This invention relates to network communication systems for managing computer hardware, specifically involving baseboard management controllers (BMCs) in a local area network (LAN). The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication between BMCs and other devices in a networked computing environment, particularly for tasks such as data retrieval, device identification, and command execution. The invention describes a computer-readable storage device containing instructions for processing LAN requests between BMCs. These requests may include various components, such as data requests, BMC IP addresses, BMC node identifications, intelligent platform management interface (IPMI) channel numbers, target device I2C addresses, and specific commands. The system enables communication between a first BMC and a second BMC, where the first BMC initiates a request to interact with the second BMC or a device managed by it. The request may involve retrieving data, identifying a BMC or device, or executing a command. The IPMI channel number specifies the communication path, while the I2C address identifies the target device. This allows for precise and controlled interactions within the network, improving system management and troubleshooting capabilities. The invention enhances the ability to remotely manage hardware components in a secure and structured manner.
15. The computer-readable storage device of claim 12 , wherein the second baseboard management controller sends a request to a device, the request being based on the second communication; and wherein the response is generated at the device in response to the request.
A system for managing computer hardware includes a baseboard management controller (BMC) that communicates with a device to monitor or control hardware components. The BMC sends a request to the device, and the device generates a response based on the request. The request is formatted according to a communication protocol, such as IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface), to ensure compatibility with the device. The BMC processes the response to extract status information, such as temperature, voltage levels, or operational states, which is then used for system diagnostics or maintenance. The system may include multiple BMCs, where a secondary BMC takes over communication if the primary BMC fails, ensuring continuous monitoring. The device may be a sensor, a power supply, or another hardware component that provides data for system management. The communication between the BMC and the device is secured to prevent unauthorized access or tampering. This system improves hardware reliability by enabling proactive monitoring and automated error detection.
16. The computer-readable storage device of claim 12 , wherein the baseboard management controller identification is one to four bits long.
A system for managing computer hardware includes a baseboard management controller (BMC) that monitors and controls server components. The BMC communicates with a host processor to exchange status and control data. To ensure secure and efficient communication, the system assigns a unique identifier to the BMC. This identifier is encoded as a binary value between one and four bits in length, allowing for a compact yet flexible identification scheme. The identifier is used to authenticate the BMC and verify its legitimacy before establishing communication channels. The system may also include additional security measures, such as cryptographic keys or access control lists, to further protect the communication link. The BMC identifier is stored in a non-volatile memory module within the server hardware, ensuring persistence across power cycles. The identifier can be dynamically updated if necessary, allowing for reconfiguration or replacement of the BMC without disrupting system operations. This approach enhances security and reliability in server management by providing a lightweight yet robust identification mechanism.
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October 1, 2019
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